“The measure is designed to prevent singular dependency on our machines – we want our low-cost solution to complement other services that are available, as engagement with professionals and local support services is instrumental to breaking the cycle of homelessness,” the charity said.

Although the charity accepts it will not take people off the streets, it believes the machine will help homeless people in their time of need.

The machine is currently unique to Nottingham, but there are plans for over 100 more for cities such as Manchester and London.

Vending machine for homeless

One of the trustees of Action Hunger, Halimah Gulzar Khaled, said: “This now means homeless people have access to food 24 hours a day.

“If they are hungry or needing a pair of socks or feeling cold, there’s a place there that they can go to.

“It’s not going to take people off the streets because it’s only giving food or small items three times a day, but it will help them while they are going through this phase of their life.

Vending machine for homeless

“That’s why it is limited to three items a day, because it is just for their needs.”

Lee Crowden, 43, who has been homeless for three and a half months, said: “It will give you a service in the middle of the night or the early hours of the morning.

“It’s a good idea, it’s one of the best things to happen in this city.

“People only get access to the card two weeks at a time so it’s not like they are going to get free access to the card.”